Some say that the Martinez is a gin version of the Manhattan, but I would describe it as a light hearted alternative to the Negroni. It’s been around since the nineteenth century in many variations and is said to hail from California. In keeping with Perriand and Corbusier’s engineered furniture we decided to edit down the recipe to only the essentials. With only TWO ingredients !! (plus bitters) that almost everyone has at home, this recipe is the ultimate stripped-down summer cocktail. It’s the perfect accompaniment to read about the streamlined chrome equipment for living produced by Perriand, Corbusier and Jeanneret. In hommage to Madame Perriand we’re using a French sweet vermouth in this variation, bringing a little French flair to the classic cocktail. So put on your ball bearing necklace, put your feet up and get ready to enjoy. Just don’t call it a cocktail-it's equipment for happy hour.
The Martinez (version Perriand) 2 oz. gin 1 oz. Noilly Prat Rouge orange bitters
While a coupe is chilling, pour the ingredients into a mixing glass (with ice) and stir until well chilled. Strain into a coupe and garnish with a lemon or orange twist
I'm also including the classic recipe, this one hailing from
The Mixologist or How to Mix All Kinds of Fancy Drinks by CF Lawler dating from 1895.
Most versions call for Old Tom gin which is slightly sweeter than your typical London style dry gin.
The Martinez CF Lawler version
1/2 jigger Old Tom gin 1/2 jigger vermouth
1 dash simple syrup
2 dashes orange bitters
Stir well and strain into a cocktail glass; add one imported cherry
Thirsty for more? Read all about Charlotte Perriand and her iconic photo here